Pines with snow on top stretched as far as the eye could see. Frost clung to the low branches, and a gentle wind carries the noises of hidden critters. Pinecone Cookie darted between trunks while a towering Tree Golem followed beside them.

Pinecone Cookie skipped, staff tapping the snow. “Alright, Tree Golem! Today’s tasks: One, make sure the squirrel‑families have enough acorns for winter. Two, calm those squabbling chickadees. And three, scratch that itchy bark on the old oak."